Background Mesh repair reduces the risk of reoperation for recurrence in patients with small umbilical and epigastric hernias compared with sutured repair. However, reoperation for recurrence underestimates total recurrence (reoperation or clinical) and mesh reinforcement may induce chronic pain. This study investigated the cumulated risk of recurrence after open mesh and sutured repair in small (≤2 cm) umbilical and epigastric hernias. Possible risk factors were evaluated for chronic pain and recurrence.

Methods A cohort study with questionnaire-follow-up was conducted. Patients with primary, elective, open mesh or sutured repair for a small umbilical or epigastric hernia (≤2 cm) were included. Follow-up was performed by a validated questionnaire regarding suspicion of recurrence and chronic pain (moderate or severe). Suspected recurrence qualified for clinical examination. Recurrence was defined as reoperation for recurrence or clinical recurrence. Risk factors for recurrence and chronic pain were investigated by multivariate analyses.

patients having umbilical or epigastric hernia repair from 2008-2010 in Zealand

Eligibility

Ages Eligible for Study:

18 Years and older (Adult, Senior)

Genders Eligible for Study:

Both

Accepts Healthy Volunteers:

No

Sampling Method:

Non-Probability Sample

Study Population

all patient having mesh or sutured repair of small (> 2 cm) umbilical or epigastric hernias in the region of Zealand from 1th of January 2008 to 31th of December 2010.

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

elective open mesh or sutured repair of small umbilical or epigastric hernia repairs

Exclusion Criteria:

acute operation

operation outside region of Zealand

laparoscopic repair

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Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01635868